USO opens day room at Laughlin Published Feb. 19, 2025 By Airman 1st Class Harrison Sullivan 47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The United Service Organizations (USO) unveiled a new day room during a ribbon cutting ceremony at Laughlin Air Force Base, Feb. 4, 2025. The opening of the day room at XL Landings, marks a new milestone in the partnership of Laughlin and the USO. The USO mission, established in 1941, is dedicated to bringing morale and resiliency to both members of the military and their families. “Bringing the USO to Laughlin has been no small feat,” said Gary Cole, USO West Region, president. “It has been a journey that has spanned years filled with challenges and obstacles that could only be overcome through innovative solutions, the right partnerships, and a collective commitment to improving the quality of life for our Airmen and their families.” The USO has been servicing Laughlin since 2019 using the USO San Antonio Team and USO Mobile Team assets. This is the first time in Laughlin’s history to have a physical location on base, providing a dedicated space for the USO to deliver their mission at a regular tempo. “This has been a long time coming, said U.S. Air Force Col. Jesse Caldwell, 47th Flying Training Wing, deputy commander. A lot of people and the previous leadership here at Laughlin teamed up with the USO to make this happen and bring much needed rest and relaxation.” With the new location here, the USO is better equipped to facilitate improvements in the morale, resiliency, and quality of life for service members and their families during their time at Laughlin. “We know that military life is challenging and the USO wants to be there to support service members and their families as they progress along their military journey,” said Heather Krauss, USO executive director. “With over 200 locations worldwide, a USO day room at an [austere] location such as Laughlin, is a way for us to be by your side in service.” The lounge includes WiFi access, snacks and beverages and an entertainment area with TV, movies and family games. “We hope this space will be a place of comfort, community, connections, and joy for the entire Laughlin population,” said Krauss.